Figures from broadcasting have been paying tribute to David Oates after the commentator died suddenly at the age of 50.

Oates had worked for the BBC for more than 25 years, but had recently left to work as a freelance radio journalist.

The BBC said his death had come following a short illness, though other sources reported it as the result of a virus.

Oates worked primarily on football and rugby league, and was a noted Blackpool fan.

He had less than a year ago been commentating on the FA Cup match in which Bolton Wanderers midfielder Fabrice Muamba had suffered a near-fatal cardiac arrest.

“Everyone at BBC Radio Sport is in shock at this terrible news,” said Richard Burgess, head of radio sport at the BBC. “David was a trusted and much-loved colleague who provided many years of loyal service to the BBC.

"His enthusiasm for commentating and reporting on football and rugby league was boundless - we will all remember with great affection his love of Blackpool FC in particular. To lose him at such a relatively young age is a tragedy.”

Former footballer and now TalkSport radio host Stan Collymore added: “Sincere condolences to Lotty & Family at hearing the sad news of the death of David Oates.

“Worked with him many times, devastating news.”

“So shocked that BBC friend & colleague David Oates has died,” said Claire Balding. “He was a loveable Eeyore. Thinking of Lottie & the girls.”

"Blackpool FC would like to pass on its condolences to the family of BBC 5 Live broadcaster David Oates. Big Pool fan, will be sorely missed."